3coast Advances Infrastructure Proficiencies and Attains Microsoft Certified Partner Status

3coast recently achieved Microsoft Certified Partner status by demonstrating proficiencies in advanced infrastructure and data management solutions. These competencies require proven expertise in database management and Microsoft specializations, such as Exchange server, Active Directory, storage solutions, systems management and Windows desktop deployment.

“As a Microsoft Partner, 3coast is poised to better support client needs with more specialized technical expertise and access to the latest resources and technologies,” said George Black, president and CEO of 3coast.

Potential partners must present case studies on past projects to demonstrate the necessary requirements for Certified Partner status. To satisfy the database management competency requirements, 3coast presented a case in which it facilitated financial reporting to ensure a health care services client receives weekly business funding.

3coast restructured the client’s reporting process with a custom software application, incorporating Microsoft SQL server. The application assimilates data and tracks inventory flow for more accurate reporting.

For the advanced infrastructure solutions competency requirements, 3coast submitted a case in which it reengineered the point-of-sale system for a parking garage client. Custom software was developed based on Microsoft technologies to control third-party hardware and software, including the cash drawer, customer video display, receipt printer and garage gate controller.

The custom application streamlined the POS system and facilitated garage traffic flow. Steps-per-transaction for parking garage attendants decreased from eight to two, allowing 10 garages to more efficiently process approximately 4,000 cars per day. It eliminated financial inaccuracies and increased data security.

The goal of the Microsoft Partner Program is to reward partners for their expertise, recognize their contributions to the technology industry and provide tools and resources that deliver value and ultimately increase profitability. It is designed for all partners who develop and market solutions based on Microsoft platforms, provide consulting or technical services on Microsoft systems or recommend Microsoft technology purchases.

Three program levels – Registered Partner, Certified Partner and Gold Partner – recognize partners for advancement within their competencies. With more than 425,000 partners, the program offers opportunities to:

  • Expand skills and refine business strategies
  • Enable long-term growth
  • Establish partner alliances with complementing solution providers

“We look forward to completing the requirements to reach Gold Partner status as it demonstrates our commitment to providing best-in-class business technology solutions to our clients,” said Stephen Sweeney, chief operating officer at 3coast.

About 3coast

Founded in 1980 as Robert Shields & Associates, 3coast is a Houston-based business technology services firm that solves business problems and helps companies grow, through technology. 3coast offers enterprise resource planning (ERP) services, business technology advisory services and managed IT support. As a strategic partner, 3coast examines each client’s business vision and then innovates technology solutions to support that vision.

3coast also offers IT staffing services with focus on software engineers, network engineers, developers and consultants specialized in PeopleSoft, Oracle, JD Edwards, Java and .NET. 3coast connects with highly skilled candidates from across the globe and offers contract staffing, contract-to-hire, permanent placement and payroll services. For three years, 3coast has been recognized by the Houston Business Journal and FastTech 50 as one of Houston’s fastest-growing technology companies. In 2007, 3coast was acknowledged by Inc. magazine as one of the 5,000 fastest-growing U.S. companies.